Summer in Novo mesto:

In the heart of Dolenjska, where rivers, street festivals, forest paths and local drops intertwine, Novo mesto comes to life in summer at its own slow pace. The city doesn’t show off – rather, it invites: sit, listen, swim.

Below Portoval, just a few steps away from the Main Square, lies the city beach – a popular spot for those looking for refreshment without escaping the city. As part of the Paddle the Krka offer, you can rent a sup, canoe or wooden boat and paddle past Julija’s footbridge, the Kandijski most Bridge, Breg and the Franciscan Monastery. If you find the river’s current too slow, take a safari tour on the Temenica stream. If it’s too fast – wait for the Rudolf raft, which never rushes the day.

At the foot of Trška Gora, the mountain with the most brick houses in the world in terms of area, new cycle paths and ten electric bikes ready for the twists and turns await you. Climb up to the Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, or stop at one of the Open Cottages for a glass of wine. The first is for thirst, the second (and all the following) for story.

For those who are more attracted by the alleys and romance than the hills, a visit to Otočec Castle, the only river castle in the country, is a must. For hikers, the Gorjanci mountains offer Trdinov vrh, with its views, shade and – supposedly – rejuvenating effect.

As the day turns to evening, Novo mesto transforms into a stage under the stars. The first applause goes to the Krka Jump – the legendary jumping competition from the Kandijski most bridge, which opens the summer season this Saturday. Night on the Krka, a tribute to the river and life along it, follows. Culture and art lovers will enjoy the Novomeško Summer Festival, street concerts at the Novomeško Summer Evenings, film and theatre evenings under the blue sky, the Jazzinty International Jazz Festival, the Reku Reku talk nights and many more.